New Legislation Effective July 1

posted by Chris Hagenow | 12.40pc
July 01, 2016

The beginning of July marks a great time of year. We celebrate Independence Day, enjoy the beautiful weather, and spend time with those we love. My family has already kicked off our summer fun with visits to several of our state parks, family cookouts, bike rides, and more.

In state government, the beginning of July is also noteworthy. July 1 is the first day of the state’s fiscal year and the date most legislation signed into law this year goes into effect. Along with the beginning of our new state budget, here are some notable laws effective July 1:House File 2278 and Senate File 2191 – Human Trafficking: These bills establish an office in the Department of Public Safety to oversee and coordinate efforts to combat human trafficking and extend the statue of limitations for kidnapping and human trafficking victims. The office will serve as a main point of contact to help the various agencies involved in combatting this horrendous crime and rescuing victims. The extension of the statue of limitations ensures that kidnapping and human trafficking victims who are minors are able to seek justice after turning 18 years old.Senate File 2218 – Opioid Antagonist: Across our country and state, we’ve seen a significant increase in drug overdoses resulting from the abuse of opioids and heroin. The number of deaths resulting from opioid abuse has increased with 52 in 2014 compared to 12 in 2005. This law now allows emergency medical professionals to obtain and administer an opioid antagonist, like Narcan, that can save lives by blocking the effects of the overdose and allowing more time to get treatment.House File 2392 – Career and Technical Education (CTE) Reform: The CTE reform bill was a collaborative effort between educators, policy makers, and several other agencies to update and modernize Iowa’s CTE delivery system. The intent is to ensure all students have access to high-quality globally competitive programming, reduce skill shortages, and enhance economic growth. Part of the bill pertaining to career guidance went into effect when it was signed into law, while the sections dealing with CTE programming, career academies, and regional partnerships between education and industry went into effect on July 1.For a more comprehensive list of bills, click here.I hope you have a great Independence Day weekend!